Title hero back to guide Hawks' rise

The Illawarra Hawks will receive a much-needed boost on Friday, with NBL25 championship-winner William Hickey set to make his season debut against New Zealand.

Hickey, who was pivotal during Illawarra's run to a second Championship in 2024-25, has been out with an eye injury since the CODE Sports NBL Blitz in Canberra.

During his absence, the reigning Champions have slumped to a 2-4 start, improved by a nail-biting one-point win over Perth in Round 6.

Friday's contest at the WIN Entertainment Centre will also be an Indigenous Round fixture, which Hickey, who is a proud Wiradjuri and Gomeroi man, says is always special to be involved in.

"[To me] the round is about recognition and [an opportunity] to showcase our culture," Hickey said during an interview with ESPN's Nothing But Net.

"It's obviously a great [initiative] that the NBL does, especially with the way they get local artists involved [for the uniform design].

"It's big for the community and young Indigenous kids, whether that's in Melbourne, Perth and anywhere [across Australia], get to see that and [aspire to follow in the footsteps] showcasing their own talents."

Hickey is one of four Indigenous players in Illawarra's squad, alongside Biwali Bayles, Johny Narkle and Kobe McDowell-White.

Friday's Round 7 fixture against the Breakers tips off at 7.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.